Tim Kaine's Thanksgiving Message
Posted by:
Tim 2018
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Date: November 23, 2017 05:56PM
Like many Americans, I'll be spending tomorrow reflecting on all of the blessings in life that I'm thankful for. And there's so much: Of course, I am thankful every day for my wife Anne (we'll be celebrating our 33rd wedding anniversary on Friday!) and for our whole family. Our family grew this year as our oldest son Nat got married. And I am deeply, continually grateful for all those who aren't spending this holiday with their families because they're serving our country abroad.
But there's another thing I'm thankful for, too, that's been on my mind lately: resilience. Here in Virginia and around the country, Americans have shown such incredible resilience over the past year. There's no pretending it's been an easy one. Millions of people have had to worry time and again what may happen if they lose access to health coverage. With the outbursts of hateful speech we've seen both online and in our neighborhoods, many folks have feared for their safety, and that of their kids. And certainly, in a time when the president spends his mornings composing name-calling tweets, we have all shared some concern for our future. But amidst all of that, we have found real hope, and unmistakable resilience.
After the tragic events in Charlottesville in August, the Heather Heyer Foundation was formed to give financial assistance to young people who are passionate about civil rights and social justice. What an incredible way to honor Heather's life and her dreams. And after President Trump announced an end to the DACA program, worrying the families of nearly 800,000 immigrants who came to this country as children, organizations like United We Dream sprang into action with responses like nationwide walkouts to defend DREAMers.
The American people don't get knocked down easily -- and if we do, we get right back up again and keep fighting for what we believe in. And that determination, that resilience, is something that inspires me every day. When I go to work in the Senate, it's not for me. It's for those people who feel afraid or disappointed, but keep pushing ahead to build the life they want for their kids and grandkids.
So tomorrow, between the turkey and the pies, I hope you'll join me in taking a few moments to think about all of the good in our country, and the power of that goodness to pave the way for a bright holiday season and new year.
I wish a very happy Thanksgiving to you and your loved ones.
Keep resisting,
Tim Kaine